Feature

First statement from the new Minister
Kouichi Yamamoto

I have once again fully recognized the weight of responsibility as Minister of the Environment for "protecting human beings and the environment."

First of all, I understand that the post-earthquake reconstruction is in transition to a new stage as five years have passed since the outbreak of the Great East Japan Earthquake. We intend to complete decontamination within this fiscal year in accordance with our plan and promote further restoration, reconstruction and revitalization of disaster-affected areas so that the people in those areas including Fukushima can live in safety and without fear. We also intend to make our best efforts to build interim storage facilities, dispose of waste contaminated by radioactive substances, and provide healthcare for residents and address their health concerns relating to radiation.

The Kumamoto Earthquake, which occurred last April, also caused enormous damage. Based on the lessons learnt from the Great East Japan Earthquake, we are determined to support, to the best of our ability, disaster waste disposal and other activities towards early restoration and reconstruction.

For Japan's further growth, it is essential to establish a new society in which low-carbon, resource cycle, and coexistence with nature are integrated, namely, the "Circulatory Symbiotic Society." With regard to the climate change issue in particular, it is high time to put the "Paris Agreement," adopted at the end of last year, into actual practice. We will aim for its early ratification and actively advance our policies and measures including fundamental enhancement of the nationwide campaign for the low-carbon lifestyle.

In addition, we will take a broad-based approach to secure the health of all people and a sound environment such as implementing resource recycling measures, conserving biodiversity, and promoting the "Visit! National Park Project," which provides high-quality, high-value added tourism by making the most of the beautiful nature in national parks.

Regarding nuclear emergency preparedness, I am fully aware as the Minister of State for Nuclear Emergency Preparedness that the government bears the responsibility to protect people's health and property in the event of a nuclear accident, and I will make continuous efforts, together with local governments, for nuclear disaster prevention. As for nuclear regulations, I will support the Nuclear Regulation Authority's independent and neutral efforts to improve safety in the aspects of securement of budgets and improvement of the system.

"Protection of human beings and the environment" is the common mission to be achieved in our efforts to reconstruct Fukushima, establish a "Circulatory Symbiotic and Inclusive Society," and prevent nuclear disaster, all of which are essential part of building a new society full of dreams. As I am resolved to make every effort to tackle these tasks, your kind cooperation would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Kouichi Yamamoto
Minister of the Environment of Japan